Mud

The first girl, the first kiss, a murderer on the run, an ageing retired sniper – in short, all the usual things in a teenage boy's life. After the brilliant Take Shelter and this enjoyable piece now, we should keep an eye on the talented Jeff Nichols. Mud isn't nearly as great as Nichols's previous film, but it's pleasantly sober, the narrative flows as slowly as the river by which the story takes place, it doesn't rely on shocking twists and eye-popping moments, though perhaps I could have done without the final gunfight. Plus my favorite occasional (non)actor and playwright Sam Shepard, a great kid lead in Tye Sharidan (if he sticks with it, he's got a big future ahead of him), a believable McConaughey (who's already buried his surfboard ten fathoms under the sand for good), and Nichols's court actor Michael Shannon in what's probably his first normal role :o) A likeable indie effort, keep it up, Jeff. (11/08/2013)

A movie with a heart. A beautiful story about friendship, love, fathers and sons. The message behind it that women are bitches, but still it’s worth fighting for the right to be like that couldn’t be clearer. The Hicksville USA atmosphere is engrossing and Matthew is convincing in the main role. He has grown incredibly as an actor. The boys are also superbly cast. One of the most powerful movie experiences of this year. (13/09/2013)

Following Take Shelter, Jeff Nichols' next film again shows that it's made by someone who wants to create something meaningful. The escalation of events and tension here is absolutely stunning. The pace is slow, but there's always something happening, gradually revealing the cards of this boyish adventure. The scene where young Ellis saves Juniper from the man who is beating her is incredibly powerful. It literally takes your breath away. What if he hurts the boy?! The contrast in pace between the individual scenes is, for me, a great example of how storytelling can be masterfully handled. Additionally, it reaffirmed for me that the Southern accent is amazing, and Matthew McConaughey's is excellent. Equally impressive is the country music, which beautifully complements the scenes and is perfectly used for transitions. (06/01/2014)

An intelligent and incredibly mature film about people who think more about others than themselves. That the current redneck gang hates it, it’s just another proof of it. An excellent movie, and another superb work after Take Shelter. Standing ovation for Jeff Nichols, Matthew McConaughey and, in particular, the excellent child actors. (06/08/2013)

A sensitive indie relationship drama, emotionally polished to the smallest detail. Nichols confirms that he knows how to tell these subtle, understated stories and that Take Shelter was no accident. The marketing gravitates to McConaughey, but the lead is a fantastic performance by Tye Sheridan. A story about right values, fateful decisions and growing up – Mud offers all this in an interesting filmmaking mix without unnecessary shaky effects or eye-candy shots. (16/07/2021)